Transfer gossip: Portsmouth and Oxford in battle to sign released Sunderland youngster Ethan Robson

That’s according to the Football Insider website, who claim the recent League One play-off rivals are in a battle to secure the free agent ahead of the 2020-21 campaign.

Robson, 23, was released by the Black Cats at the end of the season.

He came through the ranks at the Stadium of Light, making 14 appearances in total for the Wearsiders.

However, the past two seasons has seen the Durham-born ace sent out on loan to Dundee and Grimsby respectively.

Sunderland boss Phil Parkinson refused to sanction a return to Blundell Park for the second half of the 2019-20 term as he looked to bolster his side’s promotion hopes.

Yet the decision was made to release the youngster, who can play across the midfield positions.

Robson described that decision as a ‘kick in the teeth’ as he looked to cement a future at the Stadium of Light.

However, it appears he has options on the table, with Pompey and Oxford also facing competition from the Scottish Premiership for his signature.

Blues chief executive Mark Catlin told The News this week that talks have been held with prospective new arrivals.

But the Pompey CEO also outlined how the Fratton Park outfit, like many other clubs, face financial restrictions following the coronavirus.

Oxford came out on top of their play-off battle with the Blues, booking their place at Wembley following a 5-4 penalty shootout victory.